Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY · Northeast
Columbia University in the City of New York has an acceptance rate of 4.0% and a middle-50% SAT range of 1510-1580. The numbers below show who gets in and what it costs.
- Acceptance rate
- 4.0%
- SAT mid-50
- 1510-1580
- Cost after aid
- $21,590
- Graduation rate
- 96%
Application deadlines
Official 2026-2027 cycle deadlines for Columbia University in the City of New York.
| Plan | Deadline |
|---|---|
Early Decision IAdmissions application deadline | Nov 1, 2026 |
Regular DecisionAdmissions application deadline | Jan 1, 2027 |
Essays
- Columbia supplemental essays: the 2025-26 prompts and word limits.
- Grade your Columbia essay: free, no account, scored against accepted essays.
About Columbia University in the City of New York
Columbia University in the City of New York is a mid-sized private university in New York, NY, in a city setting.
What Columbia University in the City of New York looks for
Acceptance is roughly 4%, so admitted students nearly always have stats above the bottom of the mid-50. That said, stats alone do not get anyone in here. The applications that work read as coherent applicants with a clear academic and personal narrative more than as resumes. Admissions officers are reading for specifics: what you actually did, what you cared enough to follow through on, and how you write when you sound like yourself rather than a candidate.
Frequently asked
What SAT score do I need for Columbia University in the City of New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York's middle 50% SAT range is 1510 to 1580. A score in or above that band keeps you in the conversation; below it, the rest of your application has to do more work.
What ACT score do I need for Columbia University in the City of New York?
Middle 50% ACT range is 34 to 35. The top of that range or above is what most admitted students submit when they choose to send a score.
What is the acceptance rate at Columbia University in the City of New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York admits roughly 4% of applicants. That makes it a reach for nearly everyone, regardless of stats.
What does Columbia University in the City of New York actually cost after financial aid?
Average net cost (after institutional aid) is about $21,590 per year. Net cost varies enormously by family income; run the school's net price calculator for an estimate that reflects your situation.
Is Columbia University in the City of New York a reach, match, or safety for me?
Compare your stats to the middle 50% above. If you are at or below the 25th percentile, treat Columbia University in the City of New York as a reach. If you are in the middle 50%, it is a match. Above the 75th percentile and the school accepts above 25% overall, it is closer to a safety. Selectivity below 20% should be treated as a reach for everyone, period.
